Program Director (Child Care)

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Are you a leader who views the learning environment as a living reflection of children, educators, and community? Do you believe children are capable, curious, and full of potential? Are you ready to lead a centre where relationships, nature, and pedagogy are at the heart of everything we do? If that sounds like you, keep reading!

We are seeking a Centre Director who brings both strong operational leadership and a deep commitment to pedagogical practice.

This role is ideal for someone who can thoughtfully balance leadership, day-to-day operations, and educational vision, while cultivating a culture where educators feel supported, families feel connected, and children feel a strong sense of belonging.

As Centre Director, you will play a key role in shaping the identity, culture, and quality of the centre. This role provides autonomy in centre operations, team development, family engagement, and program implementation while being supported by a collaborative leadership team.

Who We Are

At bambini, we believe childhood is a time of wonder, connection, and discovery.

Our centres are intentionally designed to feel warm, inviting, and reflective of the children and communities within them. Inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, we view children as capable, educators as co-learners, and the environment as a dynamic and responsive teacher.

​At bambini, children and families experience a child care program that engages mind, body and spirit, fostering holistic wellness and growth. Our approach brings the most up-to-date research to life within its design, play resources, teaching strategies and overall program.

What You’ll Do

Lead with Intention

• Foster a collaborative, reflective team culture grounded in respect and trust
• Mentor and support educators in their ongoing professional growth
• Create space for dialogue, reflection, and shared learning

Oversee Centre Operations

• Ensure compliance with Alberta Child Care Licensing and regulatory standards
• Oversee staffing, scheduling, and daily operations of the centre
• Maintain high standards of health, safety, and organization

Bring Pedagogy to Life

• Support educators in implementing emergent curriculum and inquiry-based learning
• Champion Reggio Emilia principles in daily practice
• Collaborate with Pedagogista’s to deepen learning and documentation

Build Meaningful Relationships

• Cultivate strong partnerships with families through open, respectful communication
• Create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all
• Support a sense of community within the centre

Who You Are

• A relationship-centered leader who leads with empathy, clarity, and intention
• Deeply aligned with Reggio Emilia philosophy and/or nature-based learning
• Reflective, curious, and committed to continuous growth
• Able to balance big-picture thinking with hands-on leadership
• Confident managing difficult conversations.
• Skilled in coaching and performance management.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Able to lead through change and growth.

Within your First Year, You Will:

• Foster a positive and engaged team culture.
• Maintain licensing compliance and operational excellence.
• Strengthen family relationships and community engagement.
• Support educators in implementing emergent curriculum and pedagogical documentation.
• Contribute to the ongoing growth and development of the centre.

Qualifications

• Level 3 Early Childhood Educator Certification (Alberta)
• 1+ years of leadership experience in a licensed child care setting
• Strong knowledge of Alberta Child Care Licensing regulations
• Experience with emergent curriculum and pedagogical documentation (asset)
• Proven ability to lead teams and manage centre operations effectively
• First Aid & CPR Certificate (Level C)
• Police Clearance with a Vulnerable Sector Search (within 6 months)

Role Information

• Role: Full-Time, Permanent
• Schedule: Must be available Monday-Friday 7:00 AM-6:00 PM

Additional Perks

• Competitive Salary (based on experience)
• RRSP matching program
• Paid wellness days
• Discounted child care
• Tuition reimbursement
• Leadership development opportunities
• Employee appreciation events
• Opportunities for advancement within a growing organization

Why Bambini?

At bambini, leadership is not just about managing a centre, it’s about shaping a culture.

This is an opportunity to lead a space that reflects your values, where:

• children’s voices are honoured
• environments are intentional and inspiring
• and relationships are at the heart of everything we do

Apply

If you are passionate about leading with purpose, building meaningful relationships, and creating exceptional learning environments for children, families, and educators, we would love to hear from you.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: $66,000.00-$80,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Company events
• Dental care
• Extended health care
• Life insurance
• On-site childcare
• On-site parking
• Paid time off
• RRSP match
• Tuition reimbursement

Application question(s):

• Provide a brief reflection on your leadership philosophy and approach to early learning.

Experience:

• Child Care Director: 3 years (preferred)

Licence/Certification:

• Level Three ECE Certificate (Alberta) (preferred)

Work Location: In person